Vladimir Putin Reveals His Thoughts On Mitt Romney

In his first interview since becoming President (again) earlier this year, Vladimir Putin has revealed his thoughts on the US election. The interview is due to be broadcast today, though (strangely) Russia Today's website appears to be down at the time of writing.

AP has some key quotes the interview, however. Asked about the US election, Putin says:

"We'll work with whichever president is elected by the American people. But our effort will be only as efficient as our partners will want it to be."

He goes on to call Barack Obama "an honest person who really wants to change much for the better", according to Reuters. However, talking about the controversial U.S.-led NATO plans to place missiles in Europe, he said "the missile defense system will definitely be directed against Russia" if Obama loses the election and Mitt Romney is elected.

Putin's mistrust may be understandable — Romney has made a number of stern statements about Russia, most notably calling the country America's "greatest geopolitical foe" earlier this year. Putin addressed that comment directly saying:

"As for Mr. Romney's position, we understand that it is in part...campaign rhetoric, but I think it is, of course, without a doubt mistaken..."

"Because to conduct oneself like that in the international arena is the same as using the instruments of nationalism and segregation in the domestic politics of your own country."